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With the new school year approaching, the American Red Cross of Greater Kansas is offering important safety tips to help keep students protected as they return to the classroom.
Jane Blocher, Executive Director of the Red Cross of Greater Kansas, emphasized the importance of preparing students at every grade level. “Whether it’s your student’s first time at school or their senior year, instilling good habits is the perfect way to start out,” she said. She encouraged families to update emergency plans, especially if there are changes such as a new school location.
For younger children or those attending school for the first time, parents should teach basic information like their phone number, address, how to contact parents or trusted adults, and how to call 911. Children should also be reminded never to talk to strangers or accept rides from unfamiliar people.
Students who walk to school should use sidewalks when available, look carefully before crossing streets, obey traffic signals, and avoid crossing between parked cars or running into the street.
Bus riders are advised to arrive early, stand away from the curb, board only when the bus stops and the driver signals, never walk behind the bus, and only ride their assigned bus.
Bicyclists should always wear helmets and ride in the direction of traffic.
Parents driving children to school must ensure seat belts are always used. Younger kids should remain in car seats or booster seats until properly sized, and all children under 13 should ride in the back seat.
Teen drivers should buckle up and avoid distractions like texting, calling, eating, or drinking while behind the wheel.
For families considering giving children cell phones, the Red Cross recommends downloading their free First Aid and Emergency apps, which provide vital first aid tips and weather alerts.
The Red Cross also reminds drivers to slow down around schools and buses. Motorists must stop when buses display red flashing lights and extended stop signs, and only proceed once children are safely away from the road. Exceptions apply when physical barriers separate oncoming traffic from the bus. Following these guidelines helps ensure a safer start to the school year for all students.
